Types of Curtain Headings: The Key to Perfect Drapery
Curtain headings play a significant role in the overall appearance of your window dressing, defining how the fabric hangs, moves and folds. Choosing the right heading style can enhance the visual appeal of your curtains, particularly for large windows or streamlined settings, where the impact is undeniably more evident.
This week we are sharing some of the most popular types of curtain headings we recommend and, that are regularly requested of by our fabulous clients. As leading Interior Designers based in Devon we provide a bespoke curtain service, carefully sourcing fabrics specifically for your project. We bring samples to your property by appointment only, work with you on colour scheming and final selections. As all our curtains are bespoke, we measure for you to ensure accuracy and precision for the final product. When fabrics and measurements have all been decided, your curtains are made-to-measure here in Devon, UK by skilled seamstresses with a meticulous eye for detail!
First up, Pinch Pleats.
Pinch pleat curtains offer a classic, formal look, characterised by tightly stitched pleats that create a structured, elegant drape. Typically used in more of a traditional application, on large windows or for spaces that want to feel luxurious.
This heading is popular in either doubles or triples, depending on how full you’d like your curtains and the aesthetic you’re hoping to achieve. Pinch pleat headings are particularly well-suited to large windows where the fullness of the pleats adds grandeur and a statement on luxury. The more pleats, the fuller the curtain!
Next, Pencil Pleat Heading.
Where Pinch pleats provide a space for opulence and fuller window dressings, Pencil pleat headings are a most modest option.
Pencil pleat curtains are highly versatile and work well with both traditional and modern interiors. The evenly spaced pleats resemble the shape of pencils, creating a soft, relaxed look. This heading style works well for small to medium windows where the pleats offer a subtle, understated effect.
Wave Headings, one for contemporary homes and those looking for a streamlined solution.
Wave curtains offer a sleek, flowing aesthetic, with evenly spaced, soft waves that run the length of the curtain. This style is perfect for streamlined, modern interiors, particularly where a clean, unbroken line is desired. Wave headings lend themselves well to lightweight fabrics in either plains or pattern and work especially well with sheer fabric. Due to the sophisticated, yet understated, nature of how the wave heading drapes the fabric they are a popular choice for large windows that require a more subtle dressing. Wave headings are a particular favourite when considering a room divide in a multi-functional space, providing a soft, fluid aesthetic read more here.
Feeling opulent? Goblet Pleats might be for you!
For a touch of opulence, goblet pleat headings are an elegant choice, featuring rounded, goblet-shaped pleats at the top of the curtain. This style is ideal for formal, traditional interiors and large windows, where the distinctive pleats create a dramatic, luxurious effect. They can be accessorised with buttons and other trimmings to enhance the luxurious aesthetic and grand appearance.
Eyelet Heading
For a more contemporary look, eyelet curtains are a simplistic choice. This heading features metal rings (eyelets) at the top of the fabric, which slide easily onto and across the curtain pole. Eyelet curtains create wide, even folds and are ideal for low profile windows where a minimalist, modern aesthetic is desired. They work particularly well with lightweight fabrics, to introduce texture to a space without blocking the light. Ideal for modern living, minimalist interiors and streamlined windows.
Curtain features don’t just start and stop with the headings.
Curtain linings and interlinings enhance the functionality, drapery and style of the finished product. They are equally as important to get right as the face fabric (the fabric you choose to look at, typically facing into the room).
Choosing the right lining for your bespoke curtains can significantly impact their look, functionality, and durability over time. Linings and interlinings not only enhance the appearance of your curtains but also offer practical benefits such as thermal insulation, light control, and soundproofing. It’s important to explore all the options to ensure you’re made-to-measure curtains serve multi-purposes, an investment for longevity.
So, what are the options?
Standard Lining
Standard curtain linings are typically made from a lightweight cotton or polyester blend and are primarily used to protect the curtain or face fabric from fading, from UV rays and general use. They also provide a clean, polished look from the outside of the home, having fresh linings visible from the outside of the property is always a pleasant site. Standard linings can come in a variety of colours, weights and material-makeups which we’d talk through with you during the decision process. While standard linings don’t offer much in the way of light or heat control, they are a cost-effective solution for living rooms or areas where blackout properties are not needed.
Blackout Lining
Blackout linings are particularly useful for bedrooms, media rooms, or any space where light control is essential, blackout linings are a must. These heavy-duty linings block out light completely, ensuring a dark environment for better sleep or screen viewing. We particularly recommend them for children’s bedrooms or nurseries. Blackout lining can be used on curtains and a variety of blinds, also custom made. Blackout linings also provide excellent thermal insulation, helping to regulate room temperature and improve energy efficiency. The feel and visual characterises of blackout lining varying depending on the grade. Our award-winning interior design experience has enabled us to sourced beautiful great quality materials, and blackout lining in no exception. When discussing lining options in our consultation we will show you the various examples so you can see the quality, finish and feel first-hand before making any decisions.
Thermal Lining
Thermal linings are as they are aptly named, designed to help insulate. They are a smart textile that help keep a room warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. This lining is ideal for large windows, especially in older homes where insulation may be a concern. For rooms that are particularly cold we also provide a much thicker, heavier lining that acts as a barrier between the cold air from the windows, helping to keep the warmer air in. However, what we’d really recommend at this point is considering your interlining options.
What is Interlining?
Interlining a curtain involves adding a layer of fabric between the curtain face fabric and the lining, resulting in thicker, more luxurious drapes. Interlining is often used to enhance the curtain’s fullness and therefore the visual drapery appeal. Opting for interlining also improves a curtains thermal and soundproofing properties. Interlined curtains are ideal for creating a more substantial curtain, for visual appeal but also longevity and functionality. As experts in curtain making and design, we will guide you through the process providing you with various options and providing suggestions on suitability based on your specific project.
blackout curtain linings, thermal curtains, interlined curtains, curtain linings for large windows, soundproof curtains.
curtains for large windows, minimalist window treatments, motorized curtains for modern homes, bespoke curtains for large windows.
To summarise: Elevate Your Home with Made-to-Measure Curtains
We’ve shared a starters-guide and insight into the considerations of some of the elements that make up a made-to-measure curtain. However, as with all our services at Sue Scammell Interiors, made-to-measure curtains offer a world of possibilities for enhancing the style, comfort, and functionality of your home.
With this in mind, each project and window will be different, and will require careful consideration when dressing them. This is where our interior design experience and expertise can really help, guiding you through the process and supporting you along the way. From sourcing and selecting fabrics, to presenting different track and curtain pole options, brackets and accessories, we have the tools to help you achieve your desired window dressing aesthetic.
Whether you’re dressing large, statement windows or sleek, modern ones, bespoke curtains ensure that every detail is tailored to your exact specifications. With a variety of curtain headings, linings, and interlinings to choose from, we can create a window treatment that complements your decor while meeting your practical needs.
It’s worth noting, investing in custom curtains is more than just a design choice—it’s an opportunity to elevate an entire room. Made to measure curtains help to control natural light and temperature, whilst enhancing the aesthetics and luxury of your property.
If you are interested in the possibilities of made to measure curtains for a property in Devon or Somerset, please do contact us. We’re more than happy to talk through your project over the phone on a no-commitment basis.
There are multi ways to reach us, by using our online contact form (click here), simply calling us on 07771 578 459 or by emailing us via info@designandproperty.co.uk
We look forward to hearing from you!
Sue & Abi
)tps://t(
Wallsauce Photo Wallpaper Murals
)design-trends-whats-in-and-whats-out/)
Luxury Curtain Fabrics and Finishes
